Family. Redefined.
The story of New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano and the difficulties he faces as he tries to balance the conflicting requirements of his home life and the criminal organization he heads. Those difficulties are often highlighted through his ongoing professional relationship with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi. The show features Tony's family members and Mafia associates in prominent roles and story arcs, most notably his wife Carmela and his cousin and protégé Christopher Moltisanti.
WriterChris Collins
The Sopranos
Jan 10, 1999
After suffering a series of mysterious anxiety attacks, New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano agrees to see a psychiatrist, Dr. Jennifer Melfi. As he opens up to the doctor, Tony reveals details about his problems at home and at work that involve his wife Carmela, his kids Meadow and Anthony Jr., his Uncle Junior and his domineering mother Livia.
46 Long
Jan 17, 1999
With acting boss Jackie Aprile dying of cancer, Tony prepares for a power struggle with Uncle Junior. Christopher and his associate Brendan make trouble for themselves when they jack a truck full of DVD players. Tony's mother Livia finally agrees to live in a retirement community. Big Pussy and Paulie Walnuts are sent to find a stolen car.
Denial, Anger, Acceptance
Jan 24, 1999
Uncle Junior's associate Mikey Palmice stirs things up by making Junior think Tony wants to be next in line for boss. Meanwhile, Tony, Paulie and Silvio deal with Hasidic family problems.
Meadowlands
Jan 31, 1999
Jackie Aprile's health worsens, forcing Tony to make a tough decision. Meanwhile, Anthony Jr. learns the true nature of his father's job in 'waste management.' Also, Tony hires sleazy police lieutenant Vin Makazian to investigate Dr. Melfi's background.
College
Feb 7, 1999
During a trip to Maine for Meadow's college interviews, Tony sees a man he believes is a relocated mob snitch. Back at home, Carmela receives comfort from Father Phil.
Pax Soprana
Feb 14, 1999
At Tony's suggestion, Junior is made acting boss after Jackie dies. In therapy, Tony surprises Dr. Melfi with an admission. Carmela and Irina (Tony's mistress) both suffer as Tony's libido takes a nosedive.
Down Neck
Feb 21, 1999
After stealing the 'sacramental wine' from the school chapel, Anthony Jr. is suspended. Tony is concerned that his bad influence is responsible for his son's behavior, and has a series of disturbing flashbacks in which he remembers learning that his own father was in the mob.
The Legend of Tennessee Moltisanti
Feb 28, 1999
At the wedding of Larry Boy's daughter, the 'boys' find out they're going to be indicted, and make a premature exit to get rid of incriminating evidence at home. Upset that he isn't getting the notoriety of other family members, an agitated Christopher has an ugly encounter with a bakery clerk.
Boca
Mar 7, 1999
Uncle Junior enjoys a romantic tryst in Boca with his girlfriend Bobbi, not realizing that she's been gabbing to her beauty-parlor friends about his oral talents. Meanwhile, controversy arises when Meadow's soccer coach announces he's leaving the school.
A Hit Is a Hit
Mar 14, 1999
Christopher and Adrianna cut a deal with a famous gangsta rapper who claims that Hesh pocketed royalties belonging to a cousin who recorded several hit songs decades ago. Meanwhile, Tony plays golf with Cusamano and his white-bread friends.
Nobody Knows Anything
Mar 21, 1999
After Jimmy and Pussy are arrested in an FBI raid, Makazian tells a stunned Tony that Pussy may be wired for the Feds. Tony sends Paulie to find out for sure. Later, Tony learns that Makazian might be trying to frame Pussy to get out of his gambling debts.
Isabella
Mar 28, 1999
Hit men are sent out to whack Tony, who comes out of his depression when he meets Isabella, an Italian exchange student staying next door.
I Dream of Jeannie Cusamano
Apr 4, 1999
In the Season One finale, Tony is stunned to discover that the attempt on his life may have been ordered by someone very close to him. Later, he must deal with the fact that everyone knows he is seeing a shrink. Christopher is sent to take care of Jimmy Altieri.
GenerationofSwine
@GenerationofSwine
I'm late to this, I know, but at the time it came out I was in college and working multiple jobs to pay for it. It came out in that stretch of time that I was practically blind to current culture. But now I'm watching it, and honestly it's like all those other Mafia movies and TV shows that come around every decade or so. They never really get old. The Mafia allows for a few things, stress, tension which are both great for drama...and then brutal violence and humor, which also pair wonderfully together. The only time you're going to miss is when you don't do it well, but The Sopranos actually did it incredibly well. It was amazingly fun, amazingly dramatic, and beautifully acted...so, it's going to entertain. And, unlike the movies, the episodic nature of a TV show plays well with the mafia shtick, especially when paired with a premium channel like HBO that can do whatever they want.
